10 Great Family Events For February 2013

The Mark of Zorro at The New Victory Theater; photo by Douglas McBride

February 2 to April 22
Scientists & Sk8rs
[All ages]
If your child likes physics, action sports, or both, check this out: Tony Hawk / Rad Science at New York Hall of Science makes classroom concepts fun by applying them to the daring tricks you see on TV. The workshop will explore physics topics like gravity, velocity, and force to explain how daredevil maneuvers in action sports like skateboarding work. Science has never been this cool. Free with admission;children (ages 2-17) $18 and adults $11. 47-01 111th Street, Queens, 718-699-0005, nysci.org

February 8-24
Calling Young Adventure-Seekers
[Ages 7 & Up]
Come see “The Mark of Zorro” at The New Victory Theater for a legendary tale of action and adventure. Performed by the Scottish theater company Visible Fictions, this exciting story of a masked avenger has high-speed chases and rooftop swordfights that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whoever said theater can’t be as suspenseful and action-packed as the movies? From $14 (members $9); times vary. 209 West 42nd Street, 646-223-3010, newvictory.org

February 9
Jazz It Up
[All ages]
What is Latin Jazz? To find out, come see drummer and percussionist Bobby Sanabria for a new Jazz at Lincoln Center Family Concert! By combining Afro-Caribbean tunes with Pan-American beats, the talented musician and educator will have the kids hopping as he introduces the key concepts and history of Latin jazz. From $12; 1pm and 3pm. Broadway at West 60th Street, 212-258-9800, jazzatlincolncenter.org

Jazz at Lincoln Center Family Concert

February 9 & 10
Giddyup Go!
[Ages 3-8]
The timeless Paper Bag Players—named after the group’s creativity in rendering paper bags and cardboard boxes into costumes and props—is bringing Western-themed entertainment to Symphony Space in its all-new “Saddles and Sunshine” show. From a pie eating contest gone wrong to a bowling pin who aspires to be an art teacher, the rip-roaring sketches will have the entire family in stitches. From $15 (members $11); Saturday 11am, Sunday 3pm. 2537 Broadway, 212-864-5400, symphonyspace.org

February 9 & 10
Who’s Got The Beat?
[All ages]
Got the rhythm in your feet? Presented by The Little Orchestra Society, Lolli-Pops will get you clapping, tapping, jumping, and thumping with furry and feathered playmates like Bang the Lion, Bow the Panda, and Toot the Bird. This month, come see conductor James Judd at the “Who’s Got the Beat?” concert for the chance to move and groove to some catchy beats. From $15; Saturday 10am & 11:30am, Sunday 1pm & 2:30pm. 695 Park Avenue, 212-971-9500, littleorchestra.org

February 11 & 12
For Parent Eyes Only
[Adults]
At 92Y’s first-ever Parenting Conference: What Do Parents Really Need to Know?, you can finally get all of your child-rearing myths and facts straight. On Monday, hear an impressive lineup of child development experts discuss topics from raising children in the digital age to the connections between language and literacy. On Tuesday, parents are invited to an intimate discussion with the experts at the respective Moms and Dads Breakfasts. From $50; times vary. Kaufmann Concert Hall, 1395 Lexington Avenue, 212-415-5500, 92y.org

Paper Bag Players at Symphony Space

February 16 to May 12
Let’s Get Curious
[Ages 3-8]
Join your favorite ever-inquisitive primate as he explores the ins and outs of an urban neighborhood, from apartment building to sidewalk produce stand, at the Liberty Science Center. Inspired by the timeless classic from the books and PBS KIDS television series, the “Curious George: Let’s Get Curious!” interactive exhibit helps children learn valuable science, math, and life lessons with the help of The Man with the Yellow Hat. Free for children under 2, children 2-12 and seniors $12.50, adults $16.50. 222 Jersey City Boulevard, New Jersey, 201-200-1000; lsc.org

February 23 & 24
“Bark! In The Park”
[Ages 3-10]
Known for their performances just for kids, New York Theatre Ballet presents its newest hour-long ballet, “Bark! In The Park.” Choreographed by Chase Brock of “Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark” fame, the dance follows the story of two children searching for their lost dog in Central Park. While the story theme is accessible for the youngest audiences—complete with real-life canines—NYTB’s elaborate sets and costumes are sure to thrill veteran ballet-goers, too. From $36 (children) and $41 (adults); Saturday 1pm, Sunday 11am, 1pm & 3:30pm. Florence Gould Hall at FIAF, 55 East 59th Street, 212-679-0401, nytb.org

February 24
The Secret Ingredient
[All ages]
Here’s a fantastic way to introduce your children to delicious, high-quality food: The Children’s Museum of Manhattan teams up with The James Beard Foundation to create a Family Chef Series of cooking demonstrations with renowned chefs. This month, get some delicious, affordable recipes from Waldy Malouf, cookbook author and founder of restaurants like High Heat Pizza Burgers. Free with admission; tickets required; 2pm.  212 West 83rd Street, 212-721-1223, cmom.org

Curious George at Liberty Science Center

February 26
To Infinity, And Beyond!
[All ages]
The American Museum of Natural History will take you beyond planets, stars, and galaxies to the very edge of space in its “Astronomy Live: Edges of Space” program, inspired by the Voyager’s recent far-flung trip. Learn the differences between planets, dwarfs, star clusters, and other wonders at the borders of our galaxy in this otherworldly presentation. General $15; members, students, and seniors $13.50; 6:30pm. 200 Central Park West, 212-769-5100, amnh.org

 

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<p>Italian Fun for Kids and Teens!</p> <p>Learning a new language isn’t just fun—it’s also great for the brain! Did you know that it can help develop essential skills for life? Studies show that learning a second language at a young age can improve problem-solving, critical thinking, and listening abilities, while boosting memory, focus, and multitasking skills. Children who are fluent in multiple languages also demonstrate increased creativity and mental flexibility.</p> <p>At Collina Italiana, we make learning fun with stories, games, activities, and conversation. Each class blends art, storytelling, singing, and dancing to keep kids engaged. For older children, our classes focus on grammar and vocabulary, providing the tools they need to learn and practice Italian in a small group setting, all while having fun with a variety of resources. Kids love exploring the stories behind our cultural traditions, adding a rich, hands-on experience to their language learning journey.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>

Laurissa Jane Music

<p>Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!</p>

Speakitaly NYC

<p>SPEAKITALY NYC offers stimulating and entertaining lessons for children 0 to 16 years through a wide combination of activities based on the communicative approach anchored in the Common European Framework of Reference: active learning (group work, role plays, etc.) and practice exercises aimed to improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Kids will start speaking and using Italian in a very natural way.  Small classes capped at 6 students to make sure each one gets the needed attention and facilitate learners' progress. </p> <p>Our method is driven by a didactic method that is the result of constant updates, professional certifications and more than 10 years of experience in working with non-native speakers from different native languages and levels of knowledge.</p> <p>Our aim is to develop a range of Italian language skills while improving accuracy that will enable the students and participants to interact without stress or feeling rushed. We want to help those in the community really embrace not only the true culture in Italy but the Italian culture within New York City… Who doesn’t love what Italy represents in the kitchen, in history & in the arts?</p> <p>Speakitaly wants to support multilingual families who want to learn a new language or pass along their ancestor’s heritage and culture. Raffaella, the founder said: "We see language awareness and intercultural sensitivity as the milestones for an inclusive society. Italian, like all other languages, is an enrichment and a growth in every way. Vi aspettiamo!"</p>